Setback for Peseiro as Injury Sidelines Key Striker Moffi, AFCON Participation in Jeopardy

In a significant setback for Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro, OGC Nice striker Terem Moffi faces an uncertain Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) journey after sustaining a hamstring injury. The injury occurred just hours before the club’s Ligue 1 clash against Le Havre on Saturday.

Moffi is an important player for both OGC Nice and the national team. However, he was not included in the match-day squad due to an injury. OGC Nice confirmed that he was affected in the ischios and for that reason he did not appear on the match sheet.

While the exact recovery period is yet to be officially disclosed, hamstring injuries can range from four to twelve weeks, depending on severity. This timeframe places Moffi’s AFCON participation at risk, adding pressure to Peseiro’s already challenging situation, with striker Taiwo Awoniyi also sidelined due to injury.

The absence of Moffi could potentially reshape Peseiro’s strategy, considering the approaching AFCON kick-off on January 13. With only Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface as confirmed strikers, Peseiro may need to explore alternatives, including Paul Onuachu, Gift Orban, Akor Adams, and Sadiq Umar, if Moffi fails to recover in time.

This injury blow not only affects OGC Nice’s immediate fixtures but also casts a shadow over Moffi’s anticipated role in Nigeria’s AFCON campaign. Peseiro will closely monitor the recovery process, hoping for Moffi’s timely return to full fitness for the biennial tournament.